Monoliths is a free virtual reality experience that interweaves radiant renderings of three northern UK environments – a moor, a city and a coast – with sweeping soundscapes and poetic monologues by Hannah Davies, Carmen Marcus and Asma Elbadawi.
At once imaginative and immersive, this VR experience is an arresting testament to the inextricable link between person and place.
Their stories and origins are tied to the landscape where they come from and have grown up.
They are monoliths – standing stones – powerful and influential forces.
Monoliths was nominated at last year’s BFI London Film Festival for ‘Best Immersive Art and XR Award 2022’, was part of last year’s Melbourne International Film Festival and Aesthetica Short Film Festival. It has also been featured at Sheffield Doc Fest 2022 and re:publica digital festival in Berlin.
Credits
Pilot Theatre in collaboration with One to One Development Trust
Director and Producer | Lucy Hammond
Creative VR Development and Visuals | Andy Campbell and Judi Alston, One to One Development Trust
Sound Designer | Mariana Lopez
Composer | May Chi
Model Artist | Grace Harvey
Additional video capture | Dean Hinchliffe
Production Manager | Luke James
Production Assistant | Lucy Havelock
Funded by XR Stories and PlayOn!
‘The Moorland Calls’
Written and performed by Hannah Davies
‘The Girl Next Door’
Written and performed by Asma Elbadawi
‘Small Stones’
Written and performed by Carmen Marcus
Opening times:
Tue – Sat 12pm – 6:30pm (last entry 6pm)
Sun + Mon 12pm – 4:30pm (last entry 4pm)
The experience will run once every half hour.
Running time: Approximately 11 minutes
Age guidance: 13+
Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
What is a Virtual Reality experience?
Virtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated world. Guests wear a headset with integrated over the ear headphones.
Do I need to book?
You can pre-book tickets to this free experience to guarantee a space, or just turn up on the day.
Each session has a capacity of 3.
Last admission is 6pm Tues – Sat, 4pm Sun + Mon.
Do I need to bring anything?
Spectacles may be worn under the VR headset however it may be more comfortable to wear contact lenses or go without your glasses for the experience.
What are the health and safety measures?
Most people do not experience any negative reactions to Virtual Reality. However, VR may be disorientating for individuals who are neurodiverse, have hearing or sight impairments, or experience vertigo, epilepsy, dizziness, seizures, motion sickness or fainting.
If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, please consult with your GP before taking part.
Trained facilitators will be on hand to provide support and guidance throughout the experience should you require it.
We thoroughly clean and sanitise all equipment, including headsets and headphones, with hospital-grade antibacterial wipes and a UV machine before each use. We request that you use the hand sanitiser provided on arrival.
Under 16s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. VR is not recommended for Under 13s.
Babies in slings are not permitted inside the experience.
Any guests arriving for the experience who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to take part.
